As a single child, it was a very lonely and terrifying home life with an abusive drunken father.As an adult, I used art therapy to help me see the truth of my past. My father was sick - mentally and spiritually.Here are some of my drawings that helped me to understand my own fears and misconceptions; as well as accepting the truth.

Whenever my abuse was extended ... I shrank. My self-esteem almost vanished into the carpet. Here I am, disappearing next to the armchair.Charcoal on paper.

To avoid being seen and heard by my father, I hid quietly in my bedroom. Drawing and color pencil work was the only thing I could do that was quiet.I drew for hours every night. Art was my friend.To maintain my anonymity, I would escape to and from my bedroom window, even to go to the outdoor toilet.Charcoal on paper.

One day my father lost the plot completely. I was only seven years old. My transgression was I rested my elbow on the dining table.My physical abuse reached to a point of no more pain. It was then I stopped crying and turned around to stare into my father's eyes.I saw that he lost the plot; and he knew, that I knew, he was insane. He ran away.My mother was too frightened to step in, or take me to the hospital.Black pen on paper. Title: I saw the truth and evil ran away.

My father basically stopped the physical abuse after the neighbors complained.Oddly enough, it was only after these interventions did I realize that there was something terribly wrong.This drawing shows my father arguing with the neighbor from across the road. The neighbor threatened to tell the police. I think he did.Charcoal on paper. Title: Mind your own business.

These drawings were done swiftly, otherwise I may not have completed them. I am grateful to have had the courage to do them. It has helped to accept the truth - that I am okay - despite what my father thought.

Your story and your art is so moving. It is for me one more confirmation that children posess amazng capacity to deal with obstacles and painful experiences in their lives in creative ways. Thank you for sharing.

I agree with the others. I think the way that you've had the courage todraw these and write about your ordeal is exemplary. May the Lord Jesus Christreveal his loving presence to you, Peter, every single day and moment. (I get the feeling He already has...)BTW, I like the work - it's strong and interesting. E

Thank you Gosia and ehoeveler for your supportive comments.It is nice to know that others acknowledge how important and powerful art therapy can benefit others.I believe there are a lot of people using their creativity as a means of self-therapy without themselves knowing about it.